Additional reporting by Robin Hutson
There’s a certain expectation from a Caribbean vacation: miles of sandy beach, clear water, tropical drinks, and a relaxed vibe. And part of that relaxed vibe might include some time off for Mom and Dad. Without further ado, here’s our list of the best Caribbean resorts for families with kids’ clubs.
We’ve reviewed and visited the Caribbean’s top luxury resorts with kids programming and narrowed down the very best. From the kids’ dinner parties to the bike safaris these kids’ clubs go beyond the average arts and crafts to keep your kids engaged and having fun, so there’s nothing left for you to do but relax.
Rosewood Baha Mar
Located in the massive Baha Mar resort complex in Nassau, Rosewood Baha Mar is an exclusive, smaller resort that emphasizes personal service, bespoke experiences and five-star service, all within the larger Baha Mar resort complex, with full access to all amenities. Rooms are contemporary with an island feel and range from classic guest rooms to six-bedroom villas (and villas come with butler service and private pools).
The resort’s stellar restaurants include Café Boulud, as well as three other dining choices. Guests of Rosewood Baha Mar have their own private beach area and pools, roped off from the other resorts, creating a more serene environment within the Baha Mar complex.
Additionally, Rosewood Baha Mar guests have access to the complex’s Baha Bay water park which includes multiple water slides and a lazy river. Read our full review of Rosewood Baha Mar here.
Kids Club:
Like all Rosewood resorts, the Rosewood Baha Mar has a Rosewood Explorers program designed for children aged four through twelve. Conveniently located next to the lagoon pool, the kids club is designed to look like a pirate ship with a deck, captain’s wheel, slide, hammock, and crow’s nest.
Activities change according to the day’s theme, and includes indoor games, crafts, outdoor sports, and a daily ice cream picnic to end the day. Most activities revolve around marine life and conservation, with an emphasis on honoring the local Bahamian culture.
STOP!
JOIN OUR LUXURY HOTELS & RESORTS FOR FAMILIES,
A FACEBOOK GROUP FOR SEEKING ADVICE AND INSPIRATION
FOR THE BEST LUXURY FAMILY BREAKS.
Four Seasons Ocean Club
James Bond fans will recognize this iconic Bahamian resort as the setting for not one, but two popular Bond films. Since it opened in 1962, the Ocean Club has set the standard for classic Caribbean luxury. Now a Four Seasons resort, the Ocean Club has retained its original vintage glamour with twenty-first century accommodations. With rooms ranging from standard king and two-queen-bedded rooms to four-bedroom oceanfront villas, the Ocean Club has accommodations for small and large families alike.
The resort’s renowned Versailles Gardens are tiered, spectacular, and unlike anything you’ll see in the Caribbean islands. Dining is consistently excellent, with four restaurants, including a signature Jeans-George Vongerichten restaurant, Dune. There is a lagoon family pool with zero-entry and a beautiful adults-only pool in the Versailles Garden. Just a short drive from the Atlantis resort complex, guests of the Ocean Club receive complimentary access to the Atlantis waterpark. Read our full review of the Ocean Club here.
Kids Club:
Fours Seasons knows how to do kids clubs right and the Ocean Club’s is no exception. Kids Only includes a computer room, crafting area, outdoor playground, gaming area and daily programming for kids aged four through twelve.
Programming is focused on the treasures of the Bahamas, with an emphasis on marine life and outdoor adventures. Sports, art projects, and exploring the vast grounds and gardens of the resort are a part of the club’s daily activities schedule. As at all Four Seasons resorts, Kids Only is complimentary.
Rosewood Little Dix Bay
As the jewel of the British Virgin Islands, Rosewood Little Dix Bay is a hidden paradise that is worthy of its Forbes Five Star status. Located on Virgin Gorda, the resort is set on a spectacular half-mile of private beach and more than 300 acres of lush gardens and greenery. With a series of low-rise buildings inspired by the South Pacific, as well as, villas ranging from two to six-bedrooms, Little Dix Bay is a tropical oasis perfect for families who want a serene, bespoke experience with an emphasis on contemporary dining and personalized service.
Every accommodation comes with its own private butler, and room décor is all clean lines and natural materials. Four signature restaurants serve locally-sourced seafood and produce harvested from the resort’s on-site farm. Activities include pickleball, tennis courts, and a range of complimentary watersports. The full-service spa includes open-air treatment rooms and a clifftop infinity pool. Read our full review of Rosewood Little Dix Bay here.
Kids Club:
The Rosewood Explorers program is housed in a standalone building in a shaded mahogany preserve and is a large space with gaming area, indoor playhouse, hammocks and crafting area. Activities are focused on Caribbean culture and music, and include landscape painting, treasure hunts, and nature walks. The resort’s adjacent on-site farm is integrated into the programming through educational activities including visits with resident goats, chickens, and turtles.
Jumby Bay, Antigua
Part of the Oetker Collection resorts, Jumby Bay is a true leader among luxury all-inclusive Caribbean resorts, set on a private island two miles off the coast of Antigua. The resort’s private island encompasses acres of lush greenery, pools, tennis, private beach, yoga pavilion and a renowned five-star spa featuring Tata Harper products.
Forty different accommodations in this inclusive hotel range in size from junior suites to four-bedroom oceanfront villas. Twelve newly-refreshed ocean suites offer four post beds, contemporary furnishings, and outdoor terraces with showers. Family suites are two-bedroom with private pool and can be combined with junior suites for a three-bedroom accommodation.
Three sit-down dining options feature casual and fine Caribbean dining. The property’s all-inclusive package includes all meals and snacks, watersports, top-tier liquor and cocktails and the house champagne is Moet and Chandon—an indicator of the elevated nature of what is included at this most elevated of inclusive resorts.
Kids Club:
The Jumby kids program is located in the Camp Jumby Pavilion and goes beyond the average kids club programming, incorporating cooking classes, wildlife and ocean adventures, bike safari tours, visits to Stingray City, and watersports. Kids can visit the resort’s on-site farm to feed the hens or participate in the Hawksbill Turtle program on Turtle Watch. Morning and afternoon sessions are complimentary for kids aged 3-12 and private babysitting is available at an additional cost for younger children.
All of these resorts participate in our VIP programs to offer you additional amenities and resort credits at no cost to you.
Learn how to get these VIP hotel rates.
Sandy Lane, Barbados
As one of the most exclusive resorts in the Caribbean, if not the world, Sandy Lane is renowned for its luxurious facilities, unrivaled privacy, and pampered service, which is why it remains a favorite of celebrities and the ultra-wealthy. 113 accommodations range from garden-view Orchid Suites to multi-bedroom suites, and all come with a private butler. A five-bedroom staffed mansion, complete with its own staff, car, pool, and chef is available for those who want the most space and privacy.
Sandy Lane is a golfer’s paradise, and guests have access to a private country club and three courses. Dining is available at five different venues, including a spa café and two beachside restaurants. The award-winning spa is massive at 47,000-square-feet and is considered a must-do for any guest. The large pool, private beach and complimentary watersports offer plenty of activity for families.
Kids Club:
The kids club is located at The Treehouse Club at Sandy Lane and is complimentary for kids over three. Activities include sailing, tennis, snorkeling, arts and crafts and an on-site playground. Themed dinner parties and movie nights are also regularly scheduled. Separate programming is also available for teens, and includes sports clinics, water cruises and island tours. A teen space named The Den is located on the lower level of The Treehouse Club and features pool tables, foosball, and gaming consoles.
Rosewood Le Guanahani, St. Barths
Set on a private, 18-acre peninsula, Rosewood LeGuanahani is the perfect full-service resort in chic St. Barths that is also family-friendly. The resort was recently refurbished in 2021 and features bright colors and relaxed, Caribbean-style décor. The resort’s 66 rooms and suites range from classic garden view rooms to three-bedroom suites, many with private pools.
With a vast private beach, Sense spa, and two pools—one infinity-style pool for adults and a large, family-friendly pool, there is plenty of activity for families. Tennis and complimentary watersports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling are offered on-site. Dining options include the Mediterranean-inspired Beach House St. Barths, as well as Bar Melange, a hip, casual bar and lounge. The resort is close to St. Barths’ vibrant dining and nightlife scene, making it a convenient choice for exploring the island’s offerings.
Kids Club:
The Rosewood Explorers kids club is a private space offering painting, cooking, arts and crafts and water activities. Complimentary for children aged four through eleven, the Rosewood Explorers has a children’s program that changes daily and includes both French and English-speaking counselors. Private babysitting services are available at an extra cost.
Kimpton Seafire, Grand Cayman
Located on a secluded stretch of seven-mile beach, the Kimpton Seafire is a relaxed resort known for its down-to-earth, friendly service. This 266-room resort features whimsical, brightly colored décor that is both youthful and contemporary. Rooms are spacious and feature family-friendly options like sofas that convert into bunkbeds, and range in size from classic guest rooms to two-bedroom oceanfront suites. For the ultimate in privacy, book one of the resort’s three-bedroom oceanfront bungalows that come with a full kitchen and living space.
There are four dining options ranging from the casual Coccobana, which serves fish tacos and sandwiches, to the fine dining at Ave, a seafood/steakhouse. The massive beachfront pool has four swimming areas, including one with zero entry and a splash pad. There is also a full-service spa, fitness center, and complimentary watersports. The Kimpton Seafire is consistently top rated by families due to its friendly service, thoughtful design, and small perks like a nightly wine hour and complimentary dining for younger kids under five.
Kids Club:
Camp Seafire is the resort’s kids club for children ages 5-12. Daily programming includes arts and crafts, sports, and beach time. The kids club recently added a dedicated water park, Splash at Seafire, that is staffed by Camp Seafire, and includes waterslides and multiple splash zones. Pricing for Camp Seafire begins at $75/child for half-days and $130/child for full-day.
Grace Bay Club, Turks and Caicos
Grace Bay Club in Turks and Caicos offers three different hotel options within one resort. The adults-only Hotel building, the family-friendly Villa Suites, and the exclusive Estate section (a resort within a resort) exemplifies Grace Bay’s personalized service for its varied guests. Grace Bay is an enduring favorite of families due to their oversized one and two-bedroom family suites that feature large oceanfront terraces, living areas, and multiple bathrooms. Décor is classic Caribbean, and the vibe at Grace Bay is relaxed luxury.
The ultra-private Estates section of Grace Bay features its own exclusive cabanas, separate pool, and concierge. The Estate section has four and five-bedroom oceanfront villas, many with private pools. Grace Bay has four on-site restaurants, ranging from the signature oceanfront Infiniti restaurant (and its Instagram-famous 90-foot infinity pool bar), to the beachfront Just Tacos restaurant. Three beachfront pools, watersports and full-service spa treatments allow for plenty of activity for the whole family.
Kids Club:
Grace Bay Club offers several options for kids clubs, all complimentary. The drop-in clubhouse and playground is open to all ages and has an area for water play, sports, and arts & crafts. The daily programming for kids ages 5-12 includes watersports, and field trips with an emphasis on Turks and Caicos culture. Trips may include a visit to a conch farm or evening stargazing. The best Caribbean resorts for families should include the teenage guests, too. The Teen X-treme program for older kids aged 9-15 includes weekly mocktail parties, sunset reggae cruises and water skiing and wakeboarding lessons.
All of these resorts participate in our VIP programs to offer you additional amenities and resort credits at no cost to you.
Learn how to get these VIP hotel rates.
Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Due to its sheer size, endless amenities, and island vibe supportive of a sun-filled family trip, this massive, 144-acre property is a perennial island favorite among those familiar with the region’s best family resorts. The 375 rooms are spread across multiple buildings, so we can help you choose your best option. Accommodations range from classic guest rooms to residential suites and two-bedroom oceanfront penthouses. Décor is contemporary and was recently refurbished in 2021.
The Ritz’s dining options are always top notch, with five restaurants, including Blue by Eric Ripert. Little kids under the age of five eat for free at four of the property’s on-site restaurants. Two pools, a watersports center and Starfish Cay, a water playground, tennis, basketball and pickleball courts are on property. The resort’s La Prairie Spa has a full menu of spa services.
Kids Club:
Most of the kids’ programming revolves around the Ambassadors of the Environment, a nature-based program developed by Jean-Michel Cousteau. Geared for kids of all ages four and up, the program focuses on sustainability and eco-adventures. Three-hour activities such as Turtle Tales and Snorkeling 101 are great for introducing little ones to ecotourism.
Though the resort boasts a play area and drop-in clubhouse with crafts and activities. Activities for families and teens include night snorkeling and kayaking through mangroves. There’s also a nice game room for kids, teens, and families to enjoy ping pong, foosball, and more. Programming starts at $130/child.
Aurora Anguilla
This brand-new 300-acre resort in Anguilla is situated on the beautiful beaches of Rendezvous Bay and has been completely reimagined since it was formerly known as the Cuisinart Resort and Spa. With an endless menu of activities like wine tastings, kite surfing, cave kayaking, and lobster beach BBQs, the resort is setting a new standard for bespoke experiences.
The 178-room resort features oceanfront guest rooms and suites, some with private terrace hot tubs. There are three and five-bedroom villas, as well as 6,300-square-foot estate homes that come with private pools and a dedicated butler. Décor is minimal and contemporary with an emphasis on ocean views. There is an 18-hole Greg Norman golf course, a holistic spa, and tennis and pickleball courts.
Dining at the resort is a highlight, led by Abram Bisell, former chef of New York City’s Eleven Madison Park. Restaurants include an Italian restaurant, farm-to-table dining, Caribbean restaurant, and casual restaurant with woodfire grill options.
Kids Club:
The newly-opened kids club at Aurora is a large space on the east side of the resort, featuring crafting, gaming, and sports areas. The kids’ club operates daily from 9:00am – 5:30pm and often has night programming and special programs during the holiday season. With fun activities like cookie baking, painting, sports and eco tours, the programming changes weekly. Kids also engage in supervised watersports, swimming, and water play at the resort’s splash pad, located at the family pool. Movie nights and evening programming are available weekly. Geared towards kids aged five through twelve, the kids program is complimentary for guests.
COMO Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos
This private island located off the coast of Providenciales, in Turks and Caicos, is the epitome of low-key luxury. The sprawling 1,000-acre resort is known for its incredibly personalized service, outdoor activities, and wellness programming. The resort’s privacy also caters to celebrities and public figures, many of whom own homes on the island. Accommodations vary widely from classic resort guest rooms, to villas, to eight-bedroom beachfront mansions with private pools. Décor is minimal with a color palette in keeping with the focus on natural beauty.
There is a beachfront infinity pool, watersports center, fishing, kayaking and private charters available. Dining at the resort always gets rave reviews and focuses on organic, Caribbean-inspired cuisine at its three restaurants. The resort’s spa, Shambhala Retreat, is a huge draw for many guests. Its holistic offerings include Asian-inspired services, Japanese baths and a huge Pilates and yoga pavilion.
Kids Club:
Play by COMO Space is a thoughtfully designed, complimentary program for kids ages 4-12. Activities include fishing, cooking, arts and crafts, sports and themed activities like Pirate Day or Wilderness Camp. Like the resort itself, the kids club is low-key and low tech, heavily focused on nature-based activities. Parents love that the club operates like a camp, with personalized counselors and programming that is almost exclusively outdoors.
Planning your beach vacation
Luxe Recess can help you upgrade your family beach vacation. If you already know where you’d like to go, use our hotel booking form. We can give you a quote with our added VIP amenities.
Not sure where you want to go? No problem! Then let’s set up a vacation proposal call and I can learn more about your travel preferences. I’ll respond with a researched proposal of availability and pricing for your dates. Then we can book your vacation with our added amenities. There is a fee for this proposal and call.
The Cove Atlantis
The Cove at Atlantis offers some of the more upscale accommodations at the massive Atlantis Paradise Island resort. With 600 rooms, casino and waterpark, The Cove Atlantis is best suited for families who want a large-scale beach resort that does not sacrifice 24/7 activity and nightlife.
Rooms at The Cove are all-suite, spread between two buildings and range from a single-bedded suite, to two-bedroom family suites. Lapis Club Ocean Suites, Azure, and Sapphire suites have direct access to the private Lapis Club Lounge, which offers food throughout the day, as well as, cocktails and a dedicated concierge. Sapphire suites also have private butler service.
Guests at The Cove can access a private beach and two exclusive pools at the resort, the adults-only Cove Pool, and a kid-friendly Cascades pool, which has a lazy river. Guests also have access to the massive waterpark at Atlantis, the resort’s casino, and Mandara Spa. Twenty-one dining options, including Nobu Steakhouse, a pirate-themed brewery, a casual barbecue restaurant and Starbucks offer cuisines for every taste.
Kids Club:
Atlantis Kids Adventures, is geared towards kids of all ages and has multiple play spaces that include a Victorian dollhouse, a grocery store, a cooking school, and a wizardry program. This club is a large-scale space with multiple play areas more reminiscent of a kids club on a cruise, than at a resort hotel.
Atlantis Kids Adventures is one of the only kids clubs in the Caribbean that offers separate evening programming until 10:30pm for parents who want to take advantage of the property’s nightlife. Advance reservations are required for Atlantis Kids Adventures and rates start at $100 depending on the program.
The Shore Club, Turks and Caicos
Located on Long Bay, away from the crowds of Grace Bay Beach, the Shore Club opened in 2018 to much fanfare due to its modern design and massive family-friendly suites. The Shore Club boasts four pools, three bars, three restaurants, and a full-service Dune Spa.
Families love the fact that Long Bay Beach has calm, shallow waters; a perfect place for young kids to play. The 148 rooms range from junior suites to three-bedroom suites, and most have full kitchen facilities. There are also three luxury villas with private pools.
The resort is known for its expansive Wellness Center including a lap pool, gym, tennis, and Pilates and yoga studio. Bike and non-motorized water sports are included for guests. Complimentary breakfast and afternoon tea is offered at The Garden. Family-friendly dining is best at Sea Grapes, a Caribbean-inspired restaurant. The Colonnade is a more formal poolside option, while SUI-REN is the resort’s celebrated Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant.
Kids Club:
Jungle Jam, the resort’s kids club, is a colorful space with areas for crafts, games, sports and water activities. Daily programming includes themed activities, scavenger hunts, painting, and cultural activities. Jungle Jam is complimentary for all kids ages 4-12, with both morning and afternoon sessions.
Ritz St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
The Ritz St. Thomas is located along Great Bay in St. Thomas, about forty-five minutes from Charlotte Amalie. This great choice for families escapes the cruise ship crowds of the capital city.
The resort was refurbished in 2020. The 180 rooms feature neutral décor, marble bathrooms, and extra-large terraces with island and ocean views. Rooms range from traditional king to three-bedroom suites. Club level rooms have easy access to the recently redesigned club level.
The resort’s massive infinity pool is set along Great Bay and the beach includes complimentary watersports. A smaller kid-friendly pool has multiple levels and a small waterslide.
Dining at the Ritz is available at five restaurants and ranges from fine dining at the seafood focused Bleuwater, to Italian cuisine at Alloro, to the casual beachfront Sails restaurant. Don’t miss the spectacular views that reach all the way to St. John from the terrace at Alloro, where breakfast is also served. Also check out our full review of the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas.
Kids Club:
The Ritz Kids program incorporates traditional activities like crafts and sports, but also innovative activities like top golf, kayaking, and cooking classes. The kids club is located poolside, just next to the kids’ pool and small slide, and has an aquarium, crafting and reading area, and video games. It is also adjacent to the quick-service food market, which doubles as an ice cream parlor. Ritz Kids is geared for those aged 4-12 and begins at $95/day for half-day programs, and $125 for full-day programs. Night programming, as well as beach movies and pool games, are also offered each week.
Planning your beach vacation
Luxe Recess can help you upgrade your family beach vacation. If you already know where you’d like to go, use our hotel booking form, so that we can give you a quote with our added VIP amenities.
Not sure where you want to go? No problem! Then let’s set up a vacation proposal call and I can learn more about your travel preferences. I’ll respond with a researched proposal of availability and pricing for your dates, and then we can book your vacation with our added amenities. There is a fee for this proposal and call.